Brad Arnold, the lead singer of 3 Doors Down, announced he had been diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer less than a year before he died. The late 47-year-old rocker shared the news with fans while revealing that the band’s upcoming summer tour had been canceled as he focuses on his health.
Learn more about the form of cancer that Arnold was battling here.
Key Insights
- Diagnosis Announcement: Brad Arnold revealed his stage 4 kidney cancer diagnosis in May 2025.
- Band Impact: The band 3 Doors Down canceled their summer tour to prioritize Arnold’s health.
- Support Received: Arnold received encouragement from fans and fellow musicians during his battle.
- Personal Anthem: He drew strength from the band’s song “It’s Not My Time,” which became a personal anthem for him.
Who Is Brad Arnold?
Arnold was the lead vocalist and a founding member of the American rock band 3 Doors Down. Born on September 27, 1978, in Escatawpa, Mississippi, Arnold co-founded the band in 1996. He gained prominence with the band’s debut single, “Kryptonite,” which he wrote during high school. Over the years, 3 Doors Down has released several successful albums, including The Better Life (2000) and Away from the Sun (2002), producing hits like “Here Without You” and “When I’m Gone.” Arnold was the only remaining original member of the band and has been its consistent frontman.
Inside Brad Arnold’s Cancer Battle
In May 2025, Arnold announced that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 clear cell renal cell carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer that metastasized to his lungs. He shared this news in an emotional video on social media, expressing his unwavering faith and optimism despite the seriousness of his condition. Arnold stated, “We serve a mighty God, and he can overcome anything. So I have no fear.” As a result of his diagnosis, 3 Doors Down canceled their upcoming summer tour to allow Arnold to focus on his treatment.
Did Brad Arnold Ever Recover From His Cancer?
No. In 2025, Arnold underwent treatment for his cancer diagnosis and maintained a positive attitude. Arnold received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians alike. Notably, Creed frontman Scott Stapp offered words of encouragement. “If anyone has the FAITH and STRENGTH to face this fight, it’s YOU brother,” Stapp wrote. “I think I can speak for all of us, we are lifting you up in prayer right now, believing without doubt for your total healing!”
Arnold asked fans to keep him in their prayers and has drawn strength from the band’s 2008 song “It’s Not My Time,” which he now considers a personal anthem.
Unfortunately, Arnold died at the age of 47 in February 2026, as announced by 3 Doors Down.
